What would Thornbury be without the Croxton Bandroom?
A decade ago, the Melbourne institution was transformed from a sleepy nightclub into the rock ‘n’ roll behemoth it is today, and we’re all eternally grateful. Since then, the stage has welcomed unforgettable acts from the Eagles of Death Metal to Suicidal Tendencies, with a heavy focus on Australia’s greats.
Now, to celebrate 10 years of world-class bands, killer parties and wall-to-wall mosh pits, the Croxton is hosting a huge open-air bash in the parking lot across from the venue. On the weekend of November 1 and 2, punters will gather to show their love, crush some beers and enjoy a ripping assortment of Melbourne-based bands old and new.
So, who’s playing? We’ll tell ya.
Saturday, 1 November
Tropical Fuck Storm
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In a match-up that feels oh-so right, Day One will be headlined by art punk icons Tropical Fuck Storm. Founded by former The Drones members Garreth Liddiard and Fiona Kitschin, the band have built a reputation on their sweat-drenched live shows, delivering experimental noise and relentless energy. In June, they dropped their fifth album Fairyland Codex, so expect to hear a mix of classics and new tunes as they round out Saturday night.
Cash Savage and the Last Drinks
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Cash Savage and The Last Drinks will bring their magnetic big band sound to the stage in what’s sure to be an unforgettable moment. Fronted by the enigmatic singer and guitarist Cash Savage, the band is beloved for the way it translates complex emotions into a raw and tangible pulse. Their most recent album, 2023’s So This Is Love, was nominated for the ARIA award for Best Blues and Roots Album.
Grace Cummings
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Melbourne songstress Grace Cummings will give us a much-needed dose of sweetness. Prepare for full-body shivers as the pianist and singer-songwriter performs soul-stirring tracks from her critically-acclaimed latest album Ramona as well as deeper in her discography.
Party Dozen
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’80s cop shows, noise-funk freak outs and screaming into a saxophone – you gotta love Party Dozen. Fresh off the release of Crime In Australia, this deadly duo is set to deliver an unforgettable romp, as they always do.
EXEK
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Led by powerhouse Albert Wolski, this project has been kicking for over a decade – much like our beloved Croxton. They will be dishing out tight post-punk rhythms and dynamic soundscapes as the sun lowers in the sky.
Npcede
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A visceral force, Npcede will build a beautiful cacophony using vocal howls, experimental beats, guitar (often played with a violin bow), and the power of friendship. Whether it’s your first experience or you’ve seen them before, don’t miss out.
Loose Lips
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Made up of members of The Chats, The Prize and Street Sweeper, Loose Lips will kick off the proceedings with their signature garage punk stylings, which draw inspiration from the rock bangers of the ’60s and ’70s.
Sunday, 2 November
Spiderbait
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Sunday night will be headlined by some absolute legends: Spiderbait. Formed in the 1990s, they’ve ticked off almost every box on the Aussie rock success list – topping charts, touring the world, headlining Rod Laver Arena and even going double platinum for their hit song Black Betty. They’ll be a ferocious way to end the block party weekend.
Ratcat
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Fellow ’90s hitmakers Ratcat will be stopping by to deliver the goods in a rare appearance. Fronted by Simon Day, the band came up in Australia’s original indie rock and skate punk scene. They’ll be celebrating 35 years of their iconic EP Tingles.
Floodlights
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Jangly giants Floodlights will take on the sunset set, bringing their signature fusion of nostalgic sounds and garage punk. Coming in hot off the release of their new album Underneath, which dropped in March, the five-piece will bring the energy, blending raw intensity with tender moments.
Sex Mask
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Prepare to have your mind altered by the vague pop prowess of Melbourne trio Sex Mask. It’ll be their last local appearance before they jet off for a month-long UK/Europe run in support of their forthcoming EP.
Girl and Girl
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Brisbane four-piece Girl and Girl will bring their sun-soaked garage rock all the way to Melbourne. Featuring the unmatched Aunt Liss on drums, the band has become a force in the Queensland scene.
The Gnomes
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Gearing up to drop their debut album (self titled) a week after the party, Frankston rockers The Gnomes will warm up the state with their unique Brit pop inspired sound.
Get your tickets to the Croxton Block Party here.
This article was made in partnership with the Croxton Bandroom.
